Close-Ups

Synopsis

Close-Ups (Original title: Zbliżenia) is a 2014 Polish drama directed by Magdalena Piekorz, featuring Joanna Orleańska in a compelling role. The film explores the intricate emotional landscapes of its characters through a series of intimate moments and detailed interactions. Set against a realistic backdrop, Close-Ups delves into themes of human connection, isolation, and the nuanced ways people relate to one another. With its focus on character-driven storytelling, the movie portrays everyday struggles, desires, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships, inviting viewers to reflect on the subtle yet profound moments that define human experience.

Cast

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  Joanna Orleańska

  Marta

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  Łukasz Simlat

  Jacek, mąż Marty

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  Ewa Wiśniewska

  matka Marty

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  Andrzej Seweryn

  Andrzej Milewski, ojciec Marty

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  Henryk Talar

  profesor

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  Małgorzata Wiśniewska-Niemirska

  ciotka Marty

Reviews

Critical reception of Close-Ups (Zbliżenia) has been mixed. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.4/10, suggesting a polarized audience response. Reviewers have praised the film's ambition to capture intimate human emotions and the strong performance by Joanna Orleańska. Some critics lauded the film's visual style and its nuanced approach to storytelling; for instance, Filmweb appreciated the film’s “sincere attempts to depict emotional complexity.” However, others found the pacing slow and the narrative somewhat lacking in momentum. Negative reviews, such as those from some Polish cinema forums, mentioned that the film’s focus on subtle emotional cues may leave some viewers disengaged. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film does not have a wide critical consensus, reflecting its limited international release and niche appeal. Overall, Close-Ups is seen as an introspective drama that appeals more to viewers who appreciate character-focused stories over plot-driven narratives.